Colon/ˈkəʊlən/ Definition 1 of 4Pro Tip 1/3List Introduction A colon introduces items in a series or list after a complete sentence. You will need: a notebook, a pen, and your laptop. Pro Tip 2/3Clarification Use a colon to explain or clarify the preceding statement. I have one philosophy in life: live and let live. Pro Tip 3/3Speech Attribution In script writing, a colon separates a character's name from their dialogue. JANE: I can't believe we're finally here!